The Final Breath and the State of Drowsiness

Words of Namo Amituofo, recorded and transcribed by Namo Amituofo’s disciple, Venerable HaiZe.

September 10, 2023

The Final Transition of the Spirit

Namo Amituofo explains: When the breath stops, life in this physical form comes to an end. Before this moment arrives, how does one experience the transition? Many individuals endure the long, arduous suffering of old age and illness. Eventually, they cannot overcome the agony of death as it begins to manifest, and the elements separate.

In some cases, the soul enters other space before returning to the physical body. If the main soul departs and enters these spaces, the body is left without its master. Consequently, the elements disintegrate. The various sentient beings residing within the body must then urgently depart until there is no sign of life remaining. This is the true moment of passing from this world.

The Nature of Being Drowsy

After one experiences a state of being drowsy, the soul may return to the body, and the person awakens. If the soul has not yet returned, but the main soul remains within the body, the person can still wake up. However, because the body lacks the full support of the soul, one’s movements will feel light and unstable, making it easy to stumble or fall.

Furthermore, the state of being drowsy is often linked to the activities of the spirit leaving the body. If the heart is driven by selfish desires, this consumes one's energy, which is why the physical body feels exhausted. When the time of death approaches, the karmic creditors and other beings within the body become anxious and rush to absorb the person's vital essence to nourish their own spirits.

The Power of the Buddha-Name

Because the elements separate, these sentient beings are forced to leave the body. As a result, the person's physical strength and mental clarity become scattered and weak. It becomes difficult to concentrate on chanting the Buddha-name. This is why it is so beneficial to play the recorded Buddha-name that one has listened to during their daily practice. It helps to focus the mind and provides the strength to maintain the recitation of Namo Amituofo.

The Buddha-name must be raised from one’s own heart. It serves as a vital reminder to let go of all worldly attachments and to focus entirely on chanting Namo Amituofo to achieve rebirth in the Western Pure Land. This is the most important task of all.

The Compassionate Path of Practitioner Su

The Dharma Body of Practitioner Su performs the work of Chao Du to save sentient beings. This mission is entirely for the sake of others. Because his personal vows are in perfect sync with the Buddha, he receives the full, boundless energy of the Buddha's blessings. Consequently, he remains free from the ravages of old age and illness, and his spirit never dies. He continues to work tirelessly to help all beings leave suffering behind and find the eternal happiness of the Western Pure Land.

Namo Amituofo